FATIMA MUHAMMAD
SAUDI GAZETTE
JEDDAH — The industrial committee of Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) is studying the possibility of starting small factories inside prisons to help inmates use their skills and train in crafts that will allow them to find jobs upon release.
Ibrahim Batterjee, the head of the committee, said they will visit various prison departments and meet officials to put together a plan for transforming prisoners into productive individuals in society.
Following a committee meeting, Batterjee said prisoners who get training can become full-fledged employees enjoying all fringe benefits and allowances. They can join actual factories outside upon their release from prison.
The meeting looked into the impact of the recent price increase on factories.
Batterjee said they plan to send a letter to the minister of commerce and industry regarding the price increase, especially the rise in water and electricity tariffs.
Moreover, the research and studies center at the JCCI will study the effects of increasing water prices on water companies and soft drink factories and submit the findings to the concerned authorities.
Batterjee said they were also preparing a study that suggests the inclusion of a course on industrial literacy in the school curriculum. This, he noted, goes in line with the country’s plan to empower youth in the industrial sector, which is one of the mainstays of national revenue after oil.
